Serum/Plasma Calcium (Electrolyte Panel)
This test measures the amount of calcium in your blood, which is important for keeping your bones strong, muscles and nerves working properly, and blood clotting.
["Calcium levels help your body function normally and can signal potential health concerns if they’re too high or too low."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 24829-4
- Short code
- XR Mandible Views
- Synonyms
- XR Mandible Views
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- xr
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may order this test to check for conditions like low calcium (hypocalcemia), such as osteoporosis, muscle cramps, or nerve problems. It’s also used to monitor kidney function, thyroid disorders, or to diagnose metabolic bone diseases. Sometimes, it’s part of a general health check or to evaluate symptoms like bone pain, numbness, or frequent fractures.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw blood. If you’re taking calcium supplements or certain medications, let your healthcare provider know before the test.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare professional will clean your arm with an antiseptic and insert a needle into a vein. Blood will be collected into a tube. The process usually takes a few minutes. If you experience any discomfort, let them know immediately.
What Are the Possible Results?
Results are typically reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or millimoles per liter (mmol/L). Your doctor will compare these results to your body’s needs and any symptoms you’re experiencing to determine if further action is needed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormally low calcium levels can cause muscle spasms, seizures, or irregular heart rhythms. High levels may lead to kidney stones, confusion, or weak bones. Monitoring calcium levels helps prevent complications and guides treatment for conditions like osteoporosis, kidney disease, or thyroid disorders.
Short name
Calcium (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
What does a low calcium level mean?
What causes high calcium levels?
Can calcium levels change with diet?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy